. >> reporter: still, they are interested in the very possibility, one explored by science in films ranging from "war of the worlds," to modern fiction like mars attacks, and by entrepreneurs who see the human colonies on mars within 20 years. >> we're on the way to establishing a self-sustaining group. >> reporter: now, a scoop of sand picked up 180 million miles away could bring some answers at a conference next week >> if they find life exists on mars, that would be extraordinary. >> reporter: evidence, perhaps, but the odds of proof in the first pinch of martian sand? there is a much better chance of winning the powerball lottery. mike taibbi, pasadena. >> that is our broadcast for a wednesday night. thank you for joining us, if you're watching us here on earth, don't forget you can see the rockefeller christmas tree lighting right here tonight on this nbc station. i'm brian williams, we hope to see you right back here tomorrow evening. good night. we have live team coverage. >> reporter: a 15-year-old is charged as an adult after a violent crime spree. that's coming up. >>> and sentenc